baking powder

American  

noun

1. any of various powders used as a substitute for yeast in baking, composed of sodium bicarbonate mixed with an acid substance, as cream of tartar, capable of setting carbon dioxide free when the mixture is moistened, causing the dough to rise.

---

baking powder British  

noun

1. any of various powdered mixtures that contain sodium bicarbonate, starch (usually flour), and one or more slightly acidic compounds, such as cream of tartar: used in baking as a substitute for yeast

---

baking powder Scientific  

/ bā′kĭng /

1. A mixture of baking soda, a nonreactive filler (such as starch), and at least one slightly acidic compound (such as cream of tartar). Baking powder works as a leavening agent in baking by releasing carbon dioxide when mixed with a liquid, such as milk or water.

---

Etymology

Origin of baking powder

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Social media, he told the courtroom, was like the baking powder that makes a cake rise, exacerbating the struggles of already vulnerable teens.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026

The chocolate digestive was launched about a quarter of a century after the plain variety, whose name was inspired by the belief that the baking powder in the recipe would help with digestion.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2025

Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.

From Salon • Jan. 2, 2025

To that, add a pinch of salt, 1 tsp baking powder, 4 rounded Tbsp sugar, and a hefty shake of cinnamon.

From Salon • May 23, 2024

Flour, sugar, salt, eggs, milk, butter, baking powder, cinnamon.

From "The Book of Unknown Americans" by Cristina Henríquez